KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the new Minimum Wage Order, effective on Saturday (Feb 1), is seen as a significant step to ease the burden of workers in the country and improve their living standards.
A customer service employee at a courier company, Nur Fatihah Sophian, 27, said the minimum wage increase to RM1,700 per month provides much-needed relief, especially for workers in the city, as they cope with rising living costs.
"Previously, my salary was barely enough to cover rent and transport expenses, and at times, I couldn’t afford to support my parents financially. This increase helps ease those burdens,” she told Bernama.
A corporate communications executive at a plantation firm, Siti Khadijah Amir Hamzah, 26, expressed gratitude for the revised minimum wage and described it as a good start for workers in 2025.
"Perhaps in the future, the minimum wage could be raised further, given Kuala Lumpur’s high cost of living. However, any increase should align with factors such as education levels and productivity,” she said.
The Human Resource Ministry announced that the order sets a minimum wage of RM1,700 per month for employers with at least five employees and those engaged in professional activities, regardless of the number of workers employed.
For employers with fewer than five employees, the enforcement will take effect on Aug 1, allowing them ample time to adjust their wage structures and business operations.
This initiative is expected to benefit 4.37 million workers, which is in line with the Madani Economy agenda, which prioritises social justice and the well-being of the people while promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Meanwhile, a business manager at a cybersecurity company, Shamin Merrissa, 33, said the minimum wage increase was necessary and should be reviewed progressively to remain relevant.
"It’s time for the Malaysian workforce, particularly newcomers to the job market, to receive salaries that match the cost of living.
"We fully support this implementation and will ensure full compliance with the order. Our employees’ welfare remains a priority,” she said.
Entrepreneur Mohd Fahmy Ishak, 37, described the implementation as a proactive government step in increasing workers’ purchasing power, eradicating poverty and improving quality of life.
Fahmy, who has been running a tuition centre for over 11 years, said that most of his employees currently earn wages above the minimum threshold.
"Honestly, there’s no major impact on my company since most of our employees already earn above the minimum wage. However, we will review our salary structure to ensure fairness and consistency within the organisation,” he said.- Bernama
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